"It strikes me in a pure place in my heart and in my soul to know that I am part of this wonderful city and all of the wonderful things that have been here," said Parton, who was clearly the star of the afternoon.

There were also plenty of nods thrown Kid Rock’s way — many of them humorously referring to his 2005 arrest in Nashville on charges that he punched a disc jockey. Mayor Karl Dean set the tone in his opening remarks.

"Kid Rock came to town with a bang, liked it here and visits often," Dean said. "We are glad he supports Nashville, and glad that he’s been staying out of the news when he’s here."

Rock responded during his acceptance speech.

"Mayor Dean, I’d also like to add, since you started the comments, that you have one of the finest police forces," he said. "I’ve never seen a nicer jail."

Concerning his induction alongside a group of country-rooted musical veterans, Rock said, "I was just as surprised at this as I’m sure a lot of you are. I heard the clash of screams and boos, and I understand. I’m not mad at anybody."Continue reading →